Precious jowls: Bulldogs show gamut of emotions at dog show

A English bulldog cools off with a fan in the benching area at the 138th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show on Feb.10.

It's not easy trying to be top dog!

The Westminster Dog Show is underway in New York City, and a group of competing bulldogs are showing a range of expressions on and off the stage of their sport's premier showcase.

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Bulldogs line up in the judging ring for the first day of competition at the 138th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

When these cute pooches aren’t strutting their stuff for the judges (check out that defiant stance!), they have been spotted parked in front of fans, squeezing in extra scratches and even sneaking in a nap.

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Amanda Mcallister and Laurel, a French bulldog, play in the benching area at the 138th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

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A bulldog tries to nap at the 138th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show .

Bulldogs are listed as the fifth most popular breed in 2013, with French bulldogs being the 11th most popular, according to The American Kennel Club’s dog registration statistics, and judging by these photos, it’s easy to see why. The breeds are said to be lovable, good-natured companion dogs.

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A bulldog cools off with a fan in the benching area at the 138th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

TIMOTHY CLARY / AFP - Getty Images

Dennis Murphy and his bulldog Brooklyn share a kiss at the 138th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.